PAPUA NEW GUINEA, Baiyer, Jimi and Lai Valleys, Western Highlands, Enga and Madang Provinces – June 2007
Permanent footbridge in support of the 10,329-acre montane forest Kengai Kitenga Park conservation area
The forest of the upland slopes of the PNG highlands, descending to the northern coastal plains, contains high endemism of both flora and fauna, with several endangered or threatened species. The local clans are in the process of establishing a protected area, the Kengai Kitenga Park, encompassing over 10,329 acres of primary montane forest for at least the next 30 years. These clans live in a series of small villages scattered along the Baiyer, Jimi and Lai valleys on the northern slopes of the highlands, clustered around the government station of Baiyer River. Currently, their only way to reach any services, including the nearest government health post, is to trek for several days through the forest slopes. Along their path is a 262 foot long cane bridge, which is the only way to cross the Lai River. The bridge needs to be rebuilt every three months as the cane wears down, a difficult and dangerous operation. Seacology is providing funding for a permanent bridge using concrete and metal cable in support of the newly-created Kengai Kitenga Park. *
UPDATE October 2007 - The village and grant agreements and the list of documentation needed to start the project were completed in August 2007. Plans for September and October include contracting with the engineer, purchasing materials, clearing and preparing the site of construction, and beginning construction. The construction is expected to be completed by November 2007.
*Support for asterisked projects is provided fully or in part by the
Nu
Skin Enterprises Force for Good Foundation
